What to expect flying into/out of Canada?

Question

My bf and I will be flying into Canada in May. We have crossed the border before on land, but have never flown in. We want to know what to expect both coming into the country and coming back to the US. Our flight plans are not finalized but I suspect we will be entering and leaving through Toronto. What items do we need to declare? Should we expect our carry-ons to be searched? How long does this take and how much time should we allow between flights? What documents besides passports do we need to present? Any insight would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Assuming you're both US citizens your passports are all the id you'll need.   Canada Customs is generally pretty efficient at processing arrivals at Pearson Airport in Toronto.  You're limited to the amount of alcohol and tobacco you can bring into Canada but otherwise your personal belongings won't be questioned.  I have never had my carry on bags checked by Customs agents but they will be inspected when you go through security.   You probably need at least two hours between flights though as you'll have to collect your baggage, check in again and go through departures and security again.  Depending on airline, you may have to change terminals so allow yourself plenty of time.  If you find yourselves with extra time there are lots of shops, restaurants and bars at the airport.

Answer 2

One thing to know is that you go through Canadian  customs when arriving in Toronto, and they give you a simple declaration form to fill out on the aircraft.  HOWEVER, on the way back, you ALSO go through US Customs at the Toronto Airport, before you get to your flight.  Make sure to pay attention to how long to check in at Toronto and leave lots of time.  They usually say 2 hours before.  You fill out a US customs declaration form then too, that you pick up near the check in counters.  Those are the only documents you need besides your passports.

Security is more likely to search your carry on than Customs are.  US security leaving the US is likely to scan/search/test (mostly now after you check it in) all your luggage, more so than Customs.  If you have crossed by land, and noticed how often they search cars crossing, that is about the same that they do it flying.